Experiences requesting a c section on the NHS?

[scoobysnaxx]

Any opinions or experiences welcome.

I had my first baby last year and was induced as she was a small baby and ended up with an emergency c section.

For various post partum reasons I'd much prefer a c section again.

I think they used to prefer another c section if you'd had one the first time (not sure if this was a myth?)

Do they really fight against people requesting c sections unless for specific reasons?

[Nosleepforthismum]

No, I had my first by c-section (not emergency but not through choice), I had my second last year and asked for an elective c-section. They asked me why and I just said I wanted the safest option to deliver the baby. They didn’t question it at all and just put it on my notes and closer to the due date, got me to sign a consent form and then booked me in. You’ll be fine if that’s what you want.

[Weloveflowerss]

Hi, I requested a c sec second time round as first time was an awful vaginal birth. The midwives at my appts were very supportive about it and referred me straightaway without any protest. I would say that the obstetrician did explain very thoroughly the risks of c sec and tried to convince me towards vaginal birth by saying I could be more in control but I said I would like c sec and that was it, no more protests! It seems strange that they really emphasise c sec risks but don’t emphasis vaginal births too.

[Clariana]

Yes, as the other posters say, I had an emergency section with my first, and after that just asked for a section. When they asked why I said "because it is safer for the baby", and that was it, I was booked in.

[TruthorDie]

Meee. I mentioned it straight from booking in. Hospital wouldn’t talk about it until 32-33 weeks? I straightaway say c section, there was an air of disappointment again but they allowed it. But it was twins, l was 43 and it was an IVF pregnancy. NICE guidelines said you can ask for them

[AutumnLea]

I think it really depends on the individual you're dealing with tbh. My consultant was very against and went into great detail about how I could bleed to death on the operating table. The registrar on the other hand was very pro, agreed it was the safest option and ultimately supported me with that choice all the way through. Actually did the section himself.

[whitenoisemachine]

No issues requesting having had an emergency for my first baby. I did have a birth choices appt but consultant was happy either way.

[pambeesleyhalpert]

I had an induction and an emg c section. I'm 37 weeks now and have said from day 1 I want a ELCS. No issues from anyone!

[Fergs1972]

I’m currently 12 weeks post section and I was asking for one from very early in my pregnancy due to maternal choice.

I won’t lie, there was some challenge but I made my point clear and direct and was never refused one which was a great relief

in your circumstances, I’m pretty sure that you won’t have any problems and just remember to stay assertive and stand your ground, you have every right to request this for you and your baby

take care

[Lilo2]

It’s your birth right, check out this website: https://birthrights.org.uk/factsheets/right-to-a-c-section/

Wishing you the best for your delivery x

[Marilala]

I'm 29 weeks with my first baby (ivf miracle) and I've always said I want to have a section. I had my consultant meeting last week and it was really easy - I went to the appointment ready for a fight but that wasn't the case. They talk you through the risks and do go into how vaginal is safer but it that's it. I signed a consent form and had a letter through the post confirming the caesarean 2 days later!

I think like someone else mentioned it can depend on who you see on the day but just know that it is your right and they can't say no.

[scoobysnaxx]

Thanks ladies this is good to know! Xx